They say that Mary, Queen of Scots soaked in wine, and Cleopatra
bathed in asses milk. Today, we dont have to go to all that trouble for a
truly exquisite bathing experience. There are available a multitude of bathing products on
the market: foams, gels, soaps, and bubbling potions to soothe and relax you.
Unfortunately many contain additives that are not good for you. Today in the Orient, the
bath is still held sacred and is used for the purposes of healing and prolonging life.
Water is cleansing, soothing, the elixir of life and oils are the natural perfumes of
earth! Who said that oil and water dont mix?

However, today we have available a multitude of fine essential oils and magickal blends
that can turn your bath time into a wonderful stimulating event for all your senses and
you will know exactly what is going into the water! The best way to use essential oils in
the bath is to add them drop by drop. Usually 8 drops (or less for some oils), is enough
to scent the water and imbue yourself with their magickal properties and healing benefits.
A hot, steamy bath will open up the pores and allow you to relax and cleanse yourself.
Dont be tempted to add more oil to the water after a few minutes, as your nose
adjusts to the scent. You dont want to overdue, heat increases the impact of any
aroma, and the effect of the warm water. You can combine some scents together in your bath
water for the ultimate aroma and effect, such as Rose and Jasmine. Just add a few drops of
each to the water.

For an energizing bath on a hot day, (or after a long day at the office), try
adding the following to your bath water: three drops each of lemon and lavender. During
the winter on a cold day try using two drops of cinnamon and four drops of sandalwood. To
create a more relaxing bath try three drops each of jasmine, lavender, and
chamomile. Or try something a bit more "punch," three drops each of sandalwood
and frankincense. For those romantic evenings prepare a seductive bath for yourself
using neroli, rose, and ylang-ylang, three drops of each. To use the bath for ritual
preparation you can add a cup of sea salt to the water for purification or cleansing or
rock salt for balance and grounding. Another method would be to use a wet washcloth and
dip it in salt crystals and rub it over your body before immersing yourself in the water.